Sal Ferrara and James Buffardi

Salvatore Ferrara Sr. started selling candy in 1908. By 1921, he partnered with his brothers-in- law, Salvatore Buffardi and Anello Pagano, to expand and found Ferrara Candy Co. Chicago used to be known as the “Candy Capitol of the World”; however, very few manufacturers have survived the current economic climate. Still a family-owned business to this day, the Ferrara Candy Company has managed to not only stay afloat, but also thrive against the competition of the candy world: Nestlé, Mars, and Heresy.

Ferrara Pan Candy Company is the maker of such popular and classic American confections as Atomic Fireballs, Jaw Busters, Red Hots, Lemonheads, Boston Baked Beans, and Black Forest Gummies. Ferrara Pan Candy also manufactures products under several licenses with Disney, Sun-Maid, and Planters, as well as bulk and commodity candy products and seasonal specialties, such as chocolate-coated nuts and raisins, as well as Jordan almonds.